How to Implement Slickstream Speed Enhancements

Page speed is essential to high engagement. Slickstream has always worked hard to make sure that when added to a site, there is a minimum impact on page load times and performance.

The most recent update to Slickstream's service (May 2020) has changed the way Slickstream loads on a site. Previously the loading of Slickstream components was deferred to "get out of the way" while other content loaded on the page. This meant Slickstream components weren't always immediately available on a page. In the latest update, there are changes that ensure Slickstream components are available immediately while also further reducing the impact on the loading of the rest of the page (images, ads, etc.)

If you don't take these actions, Slickstream will continue to work, but you won't get the full speed enhancements.

Below are detailed instructions for each of these.

1. Update the Slickstream embed code

If you use the Slickstream plugin then simply update it to version 1.1.3 or later.

If you added the stand alone embed code to the <head> of your pages, you will need to replace the current embed code with a new one. The new one looks very different as it includes a small block of inline javascript to make communication between your browser and the Slickstream service more efficient. The new embed code is available in your portal. Sign in and click on the Embed option on the left. From there copy the complete embed code from the textbox in the Embed Code section. Replace the existing embed code in the <head> of your pages with this one.

2. Update your Caching plugin settings

A small update to the settings of your Caching plugin may be needed to fully benefit from this speed enhancement. Follow a link below for detailed steps for your Caching plugin.